Italian Butter Nut Balls
Italian Butter Nut Balls are delicate, buttery cookies infused with ground walnuts and a hint of lemon. Their tender texture and nutty flavor make them perfect for festive occasions, tea time, or as a sweet gift. A delightful treat that combines rich flavors with a charming presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, sugar, and egg yolks until well combined.
- Add flour, baking powder, and lemon extract to the mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Form the dough into small balls.
- Dip each ball into slightly beaten egg whites.
- Roll the coated balls in ground walnuts.
- Press a cherry on top of each cookie.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the ground walnuts before adding them to the dough. If you're out of lemon extract, you can substitute with orange extract or fresh lemon zest for a different citrus twist. Ensure your butter is not too hot when mixing with the eggs to prevent them from scrambling. This recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies make a wonderful treat alongside coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter with fresh fruits and nuts. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Italian Butter Nut Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough balls. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Butter Nut Balls contains roughly 289 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute ground walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so choose a nut you enjoy. Remember to grind them to a similar consistency to ensure even coating on the cookie balls.
What type of cherries should I use on top?
Maraschino cherries are a popular choice for this recipe due to their bright color and sweetness. However, you can also use fresh or candied cherries depending on your preference. If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit them before pressing onto the cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for easier handling. This is a great way to save time if you're planning to serve them for a special occasion.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).